17000 Destruct premalg lesion
Also known as: destroy premalignant, premalignant lesion destruction, destruction first premalignant lesion, AK destruction, cryotherapy first lesion, lesion destruction first
Destruction of premalignant skin lesion using various modalities such as chemical caustic, cryotherapy, electrocautery, or laser.
In Plain Language
Removal of precancerous skin spot; Treatment of early skin damage
Clinical Context
Performed for actinic keratosis or other premalignant lesions to prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma. May be done with multiple modalities.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.59 |
| Total RVU | 0.59 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.59, this code ranks in the 1st percentile among Surgery codes — 13.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 17000?
CPT 17000 (Destruct premalg lesion) is a Surgery code. Destruction of premalignant skin lesion using various modalities such as chemical caustic, cryotherapy, electrocautery, or laser.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 17000?
The work RVU for CPT 17000 is 0.59. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, General Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 17000 used?
Performed for actinic keratosis or other premalignant lesions to prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma. May be done with multiple modalities.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.